Dan Henderson planning to test Lyoto Machida’s chin early and often

UFC star Dan Henderson hasn’t seen action since a win in November 2011 when he seemingly secured top contendership in the light heavyweight division. Sidelined with a knee injury after waiting for his title-shot to materialize, Henderson is ready to return to the Octagon in a little less than two weeks when he takes on Lyoto Machida at UFC 157.

Henderson’s approach in the fight appears to be one fans are no doubt with familiar with – put Machida down with one of his patented power punches. Of course, if that doesn’t work, the 42-year old is ready to do whatever it takes to get his crack at the gold even if it means fighting again beforehand.

“I’m planning on just staying in his face, making him fight me, and trying to take advantage of touching his chin a little bit,” said Henderson in an interview with the UFC. “Hopefully I can knock him out quickly. If not, I’m gonna control and beat him up for three rounds.”

If Henderson beats Machida and doesn’t receive an opportunity to face the winner of Jon Jones-Chael Sonnen, seeing someone like Alexander Gustafsson steal the spot, the 29-8 slugger will certainly be disappointed but not dissuaded from achieving his ultimate goal.

“I’m not gonna wait around for a title-shot,” confirmed Henderson. “If the timing’s not right I’ll fight somebody else that’s the top guy and I’ll knock them out. But I also feel like I’ll be the guy to beat.”